Russia eyes June prisoner swap with Ukraine, ceasefire proposal under review

Russian President Vladimir Putin convened a government meeting focused on the recent negotiations with Ukraine, during which presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, head of the Russian delegation, delivered a comprehensive report on the discussions held in Istanbul.

Medinsky outlined Russia’s readiness to conduct a large-scale prisoner exchange with Ukraine under the proposed “1200 to 1200” format, with the operation scheduled to commence between June 7 - 9, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

Highlighting key developments from the Istanbul talks, Medinsky revealed that Ukraine has proposed initiating a ceasefire lasting between 30 and 60 days to facilitate preparations for a potential summit between the two nations’ leaders.

“A meeting at the level of heads of state with Ukraine is possible with proper preparation,” Medinsky noted, signaling cautious optimism about advancing diplomatic efforts amid ongoing tensions.

The presidential aide emphasized that the final parity number for the prisoner exchange was still being finalized, with priority given to categories such as the wounded, seriously ill, and prisoners of war under the age of 25.

By Vafa Guliyeva